Warner Bros. Pictures is set to return to ancient Greece and make war epic "300," based on Frank Miller's graphic novel of the same name. Pic will be directed by Zach Snyder and produced by Hollywood Gang Prods. and Atmosphere Pictures MM.
Warner Bros. Pictures president of production Jeff Robinovsaid production will begin Oct. 17 in Montreal.

Gerard Butler ("Phantom of the Opera," "Laura Croft Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life") has been signed to star.

Film tells the true story of 300 elite Spartan fighters who, led by King Leonidas (Butler), fought to the death against King Xerxes' massive Persian army during the battle of Thermopylae in 481-480 B.C. According to lore, their valor inspired all of Greece to rise up against the invading Persians, planting the seeds of democracy.

Snyder -- who helmed the 2004 remake of "Dawn of the Dead" -- and his writing partner, Kurt Johnstad, adapted the screenplay from Miller's graphic novel. Michael GordonMichael Gordon penned a previous draft.